Senseney Reviewed work(s): Source: Hesperia: The Journal of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens, Vol. 76, No. 3 (Jul. - Sep., 2007), pp. 555-595 Published by: The American School of Classical Studies at Athens Stable URL: http://www.jstor.org/stable/25068032 . Accessed: 22/05/2012 08:21
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76
(2OO7)
VISUALITY
IN HELLENISTIC
Analysis the
of
Asklepieion
ABSTRACT
The author uses analytic geometry and AutoCAD software to analyze at Kos, revealing a circumscribed the plan of Temple A of the Asklepieion as the basis for the and Pythagorean triangle plans design.This methodology its results counter earlier doubts about the application of geometry to Doric temple design and suggest the existence of an alternative to the grid-based approach characteristic of Hellenistic temples of the Ionic order. Appre ciation of the geometric system underlying the plan of Temple A leads to a consideration conditioned here as the manner of the role ofvisuality inHellenistic architecture, characterized inwhich abstract ideas shared by architects and scholars and influenced the design process.
viewing
on the island of Kos was a The Asklepieion healing sanctuary and medi some 4 km cal school of great importance throughout antiquity.1 It lies southwest of the ancient polis of Kos, built on a terraced slope commanding views of the sea. In its completed state, the impressive complex consisted of three separate terraces connected by stairways, each supporting structures from various periods (Figs. 1,2).2 By the middle of the 3rd century b.c., the sanctuary's three terraces were constructed.3 On the lower terrace, a Doric stoa with ad ?-shaped rooms was built to enclose an 47 x 93 m space.4Major joining approximately architectural features on the middle terrace included an altar, a replaced by more monumental version in the following century, and temples dedicated
to thank Andrew criticisms in my erous
and of the site, opment dating Schazmann and Herzog 1932, pp. 440-449. 3. Schazmann pp. 72-75, pis.
see p. 75;
versations.
stronger I am indebted
at an Art
The
American
School
of Classical
Studies
at Athens
556
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
1. Figure Asklepieion the middle and lower the upper of the terrace, with b.c.
view from
of
remains of
3rd-century
Temple
Asklepios
restoration the
b.c.
2nd-3rd-century
of the Temple of Apollo to Asklepios see and Apollo (Temples B and C, respectively; Fig. I).5 On the upper terrace, a TT-shaped stoa of timber construction balanced the
stoa of the lower terrace.6
(right)
The
to the
changes
for the
and additions
sanctuary as a
upper
whole. To connect the upper terrace with the rest of the sanctuary below, a new a dominant central axis a grand staircase created (Fig. 3).7 In addition,
new marble stoa replaced the earlier timber structure. In the center of the
50.4 x 81.5 m
(Figs. 2-5) on the terrace below.8 (Temple B) placed before Axially the middle and lower terraces, Temple A became overlooking visual focus of the entire Asklepieion. The Doric choice of the Doric order for Temple A stoas continued the Hellenistic to be common
space enclosed by this stoa, a marble Doric was as as 170 b.c., as begun early today referred to Tem to distinguish it from the earlier temple of Asklepios the staircase the dramatic
through
5. Important utilitarian features, as a and wells lo springhouse cated along the retaining wall for the such terrace, were upper this level. For these also found on as well features, as the monumental altar, 2nd-century see Schazmann and Herzog 1932, 34-39, 49-51, 60, 73, and its
62, 75,98,109,112,149,159,171,246,
fig. 74. 7. Schazmann pp. 22-24, fig. 54. 45-48, 8. Schazmann pp. 3-13, figs. ple is oriented Built 3-14, and 18, pis. and Herzog 10,11, 1932, 37-40,
pis.
the timber
portico
25 degrees west of north. on a foundation the of limestone, of the temple is con superstructure with the structed of marble throughout
1976,
of courses of poros limestone exception blocks in the interior walls of the naos.
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
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HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
557
-C
Figure terrace
2.
Asklepieion
at Kos,
view
==J
Figure 3. Asklepieion
restored plan
at Kos,
terrace
I
0
I
3W
of the upper
for the Ionic order for temple architecture. As Vitruvius predilection bolstered this pref architects such as Pytheos and Hermogenes indicates, as its erence with a theoretical (Vitr. 4.3.1-2).9 Furthermore, justification was traditional in its omission of measurements demonstrate,10 Temple A
9. In addition to and Pytheos Vitruvius mentions who perhaps as the convincing looked arguments Vitruvian the Doric and still much over seeTomlinson 10. Schazmann pp. 3-5, pis. 2-5. 1963. and Herzog 1932,
For Arkesios,
558
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
r-?:?ii
Figure Temple
4. View A from
of the the
remains
of
southwest
and "optical refinements" characteristic of also the interesting and easily detectable schemes Foregoing of Ionic temples associated with Pytheos and Hermogenes (Fig. 6), the seem to have been a would conventional temple strictly reapplication of the Parthenon. order in the 2nd century b.c. character of Temple A may represent only the straightforward a part of its story. As I argue below, a measure geometric analysis of its ments reveals the use of a compass in constructing the interrelationships of architectural in plan according to circumferences.11 The di elements the Doric Yet ameters of these circumferences based on the whole-number rather than amore numbers share a simple arithmetical relationship of a 3:4:5 Pythagorean proportions triangle,
to irrational strictly geometric relationship pertaining like v2 or v3, or their fractional approximations. The geometry of the temple's plan is therefore very simple, and is not to be confused by the analytic geometry it. required to substantiate The
circumferences concealed within the presence of theoretical features raises interesting questions about the nature of the building's Doric design process on aHellenistic architect's drawing board. That such an a is found in only underpinning single (albeit prominent) example of Greek temple architecture, as opposed to the more widespread approach of grid patterns, does not detract from its significance. As I will discuss, the uniqueness in a temple plan?as of circumferential op relationships to the kind of orthogonal that temples of the Ionic posed relationships to a dearth of specifically Doric temples during the order permit?relates inTemple A demon Late Hellenistic period. The interesting geometry an important architectural tenet that we might strated here exemplifies term "cryptomethodic," to the systematic features of the design referring process that cannot be appreciated be recovered only through detailed through study. casual observation, but may
plans berger
11. For
an excellent
discussion
of
in ancient 1997.
architecture,
see Hasel
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
IN
HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
559
m ?-#-3.080 ?^
-7.228
Joid
4.368
1.016*
4.435-1?
CD-"
i.ioa O O
."" 1"...'".""H
Figure
5. Measured
state
plan
of
10 rn
56o
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
world thought about their buildings in terms different from those used by architects today.We that Greek architects called their plan, elevation, and know from Vitruvius to the notion that perspective drawings i??ou (Vitr. 1.2.1-2), corresponding uses in reference to the transcendent ideas (or forms) that Platonic idealism are to be the ultimate thought reality underlying the perceptible objects of the everyday world. As Lothar Haselberger has admirably observed, the is between the philosophical and architectural meanings correspondence not casual,13 and the full implications of this correlation have yet to be appreciated in studies of ancient architecture. The rhetorical manner can seem inwhich Plato sometimes discusses this ideal our own way of as when he ist vision quite foreign to thinking, can presents Socrates' argument that couches manufactured only by artisans imitate an archetypical couch existing in a realm beyond our imperfectly conception and parables, and the lack of any clearly stated our attention instead unifying theory of ideas in Plato's work should draw as amodel for systematic to the more of mathematics general importance and hierarchical universe methods in Plato's to the ultimate realities of the of penetrating idealism. Perhaps the most articulate expression of this (Resp. 10.596e-597e). to these isolated metaphors senses Yet it is unfair to reduce Platos
does not correlate experientially with state from the outset that architects of the Hellenistic
is the well-known way of understanding passage inwhich Socrates, after an uneducated slave through a geometric proof, concludes that guiding in the world eternal truths lie beyond our embodied experiences (Meno to the Platonic model, it is the theoretical rather than 82b-86c). According the sensory that is privileged. What geometric brings systems this discussion to bear on the question of underlying in architectural plans is what J. J. Pollitt terms the of the Hellenistic age.14 Perhaps originating in the
"scholarly mentality"
considerations following to the ancient world, only pertain to how but more culturally generally of the world based understandings not the way anticipate viewed and visually discussion Cartesian of this in which objects For constructed. in the contexts early modern photogra 16-17. A are a of
12. The
Roman
people
had
no choice
but
to
and
based
drawn
models
of the
into measures,
idea
world,
perspectivalism, and 19th-century painting, see Jay 1988, esp. pp. phy,
definition of visuality offered by Nor man Bryson (1988, pp. 91-92) has recently been evoked by Jas Eisner in
his new context: structs between screen in a classical study of visuality con of cultural "the pattern that stand and social discourses the retina through which and a the world, ... Greek and
of underpinning to ways of seeing that and socially conditioned. 1997, and esp. pp. 77,
the fab lives beyond it guides and therefore process can for become the standard eventually its success or failure." rication
IDEA
AND
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HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
561
----m
I??j?I??h?-1|?H?|
.?j
?g.|
g?-^_||L?
1,1.
11_lij_|
IB ?P
| tia
ft
[m
0
Figure 6. Restored plans showing the grid systems of Pytheos's Temple of Athena Polias, Priene (left), and
Hermogenes' Magnesia p. 70, fig. 23 Temple After (right). of Artemis, Coulton 1988,
10m
a taste for didactic of the Library at Alexandria, came to displays of abstruse knowledge strongly characterize Hellenistic art and literature. A notable feature of works appears to have been the deliberate potential for simultaneous appreciation from both common and In architecture, in particular, this tendency is found in erudite perspectives. intellectual ambience as Pytheos's Temple examples such inwhich the masses might marvel knew the building's proportions of mathematical precision.15 of Athena Polias at Priene (Fig. 6, left), at its surface qualities, while those who its plan as an expression could understand
text depends in part upon the writings of earlier Vitruvius, whose this scholarly emphasis. He insists that Hellenistic architects, exemplifies an architect's in disciplines and as like geometry, music, background tronomy is requisite (Vitr. 1.1.4, 8-10), a claim that he backs up at times his eagerness to show with pretentious displays of erudition. Sometimes that he discusses, as exceeds his command of the material his knowledge 15. Pollitt 1986, pp. 14-15. 16. See de Jong 1989, pp. 101
102.
of the doubling of the square, to the Pythagorean which he follows immediately theorem, without realizing that both of these theorems illustrate an identical such limitations, he (Vitr. 9.Praef.4-7).16 Despite principle of proportion when he credits Plato with the demonstration with an introduction
562
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
* 5 rt .
,"i:.
? ,
,,+
, *
~.: ",, !
I , ,, ?,..
,;
..~.~
his scholarly quality in the context not only of general theory, the plans of but also of architectural design. His procedures for designing both Latin and Greek theaters (Figs. 7,8) well illustrate this tendency, and merit quoting at length. For the Latin theater, he writes (Vitr. 5.6.1-3): demonstrates to be constructed as follows. plan of the (Latin) theater itself is a line of circumfer Having fixed upon the principal center, draw ence to be the perimeter at the bottom. In equivalent to what is it inscribe four equilateral triangles at equal distances apart and The as the touching the boundary line of the circle just astrologers do in a are making computa figure of the twelve celestial signs when they tions from the musical harmony of the stars. From these triangles, side is closest to the scaena and in the spot select the one whose where it cuts the curvature of the circle let the front of the stage be located. Then draw through the center a parallel line set off from that position to separate the platform of the stage from the space of The wedges for spectators in the theater should the orchestra.... run around the cir so that the angles of the triangles that
be divided
of the circle may provide the direction for each flight of between the sections up to the first curved cross-aisle. Above steps are to be laid out with aisles that alternate this, the upper wedges with those below. The angles at the bottom that produce the direc tions of the flights of steps will be seven in number, and the remain cumference the arrangement of the scaena. In this ing five angles will determine the angle in the center ought to have the "palace doors" facing it way and the angles to the right and left will designate the position of the doors for "guest chambers." The two outermost angles will point to the passages in the wings.17
2003,
pp.
165-166,
trans.
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
IN
HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
563
C I \ C? r r -------?1---?--------??-,,,*,II,,, (r f C\C r CI *? Y r.f L' ' r 1, I \t' r \ r I I `r I,I I " r r, i r Ir\ II' ( II t "'?'~''"""~""~"""'~~""""""' r '' r r \ t 'r ?I 1 ,r I\ c rr t Z r r rr r 4\ rr t .?r r r , r ? \ 1. tr r r t ? ?r rr I r f r rt r r I? r c t, \ ?I I '4? ??r \ t ?-Ir C ?) C
I I
C C
And
theater
(Vitr. 5.7.1-2):
theaters some things are done differently. First, in the bot tom circle, while the Latin theater has four triangles, the Greek has three squares with their angles touching the line of circumference.
The
is determined by the line of the side of limit of the proscenium the square that is nearest the scaena and cuts off a segment of the cir cle. Parallel to this line and tangent to the outer circumference of the segment, a line is drawn that delineates the front of the scaena. Draw a line through the center of the orchestra and parallel to the direction of the proscenium. Centers are marked where it cuts the circumfer
ence to the at the ends of the half-circle. Then, with right and the left the compass fixed at the right, an arc is described from the horizontal distance at the left to the left-hand side of the proscenium. Again, with the center at the left end, an arc is described from the horizontal distance at the right-hand side of the proscenium_Let the ascend of steps between the wedges of seats, as far up as the first ing flights curved cross-aisle, be laid out on lines directly opposite the angles of the squares. Above the cross-aisle, the other flights are laid out between the first.At the top, as often as there is a new cross-aisle, the number of flights of steps is always increased by the same amount.18 These are not easy to follow, and it would be to prescriptions tempting them as indicating a fussy outlook on the part of Vitruvius if not for the fact that these geometric constructions were applied in surviving and Roman theaters.19 The to a basic geometry prescriptions pertain or squares, rather than considerations triangles
2003,
pp.
167-169,
trans.
material, of
see Isler
attempts scholarly of Roman theater design description to later Roman see Sear 1990; theaters, 2006, pp. 27-29.
dismiss Greek
564
based on irrational numerical
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
case of both theater types, relationships. In the the cryptomethodic described arguably would not contribute to patterns any visible harmonic relationships, nor would most ancient visitors have been likely to perceive them. Certainly, there are less theoretically grounded and the locations of radial stairways, boundaries, ways of determining and itwould seem more sensible to design forms based on simple doorways, intuition and functional criteria. On the other hand, our very concern with issues may be a consequence of an inherently modern prerequisite that the design process directly correlate with sensory experience. For the world who could read and understand privileged few in the Hellenistic these such passages, there was value of a different for material to aworld kind: the value of discourse. that validates the indepen of the tangible properties Furthermore, dence of underlying pertaining ideas, our own privileging in the final built form is arguably misplaced.
Vitruvius's reference to the drawings of astrologers reveals a signifi cant interdisciplinary issue at work in such architectural ideas. Given the interests of Hellenistic architects, there is no reason to believe that scholarly in reference solely to the the practice of architectural drawing developed that Vitruvius describes of buildings. Another drawn construction designs avaXrijiua, which was the graphic reference for solar declensions that served as the basis for sundials (Vitr. 9.1.1, 9.7.2-7). He recon an algorithm for the drawing, which has allowed for its provides in detail is the Greek struction as amarkedly circumferential design (Fig. 9).20 In this curvilinear the cir quality, the analemma provides intriguing general comparisons with cumferential geometry underlying the design of Temple A at Kos proposed Interestingly, Berossos the Chaldean, whom Vitruvius credits with to Kos and established the invention of the semicircular sundial, moved the Great s conquest of there a school of astronomy following Alexander In the course of the 3rd century, Berossos s (Vitr. 9.2.1,9.8.1). Mesopotamia school amalgamated with elements of the Koan medical school to establish below. the discipline of medical astrology, concerned particularly with the moment of conception as the basis for casting nativities (Vitr. 9.6.2). I do not argue that there was any symbolic connection between Tem A and the analemmay let alone some sort of mystical value. The study ple is an inexact science, and we cannot lose of architectural iconography we deal with a design that pertains solely to the sight of the fact that here architect s drawing board; it is only the circumferential approach that is of shared ways of envisioning the possibility (and similar, underscoring ?izz?ary drawing) forms among architects and those concerned with astral as well as geometry. As I demonstrate below, the curvilinear phenomena of Temple A pertains not to solar declen element in the underpinning to sions, but rather to a Pythagorean triangle. In this aspect, it is similar the ways inwhich Greeks and Romans began their theaters with squares an outlook characteristic of the ways in or triangles, and consistent with the drawn which educated men of the Hellenistic period thought. While an eternal and abstract form of the idea, the final built form plan expresses that idea into presence inways that need not readily unveil its un brings truth to the senses. derlying mathematical In the Hellenistic tuted not then, visuality in architecture was consti of the casual viewer, but also by the solely by the perceptions period,
20. trations
See,
illus 1999,
IDEA
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565
Figure
9. The
analemma
according
to
Vitruvius's description spon certainty of geometry. Framed by a monarchically ac agenda and the resulting practices of visualizing form to geometry, modes of visual representation established the starting cording for form in disembodied abstractions that were subject to math point epistemological sored scholarly In this way, the squares underlying the placement were of empirical features within the curvilinear Greek theater patently mea real. Similarly, the circles (and the Pythagorean triangle that gives sure to their the experiential rectilinear forms of underlying proportions) Temple relate to a primary consideration: the that defines the visuality of the building by constructing its geometry eternal idea. The square, circle, triangle, and other shapes are the ideas of nature that engender the visible things in the world, be they a theater, a or even a human temple, body (Vitr. 3.1.3). As in Vitruvius's discussion A at Kos discussed below ematical rules or norms.
of theaters, the drawing of a building may begin with geometry alone, and only through the process of design arrive at the final form. In further sup I argue that the design for the plan of Temple port of these observations, a similarly began with the drawing of Pythagorean triangle, from the design and construction which evolved into a completed expression that continues to reflect its origin, however imperfectly. A at Kos
QUESTIONABLE METHODOLOGIES
The very suggestion of a hidden system within an architectural to touch a raw nerve among archaeologists and architectural plan tends historians
within
alike. Far from striking an innovative note, such an approach falls squarely a tradition that has so tried the one patience of readers that itmay
day risk outright exclusion from mainstream scholarly research. Before it is necessary to briefly address this circumstance. proceeding,
566
JOHN
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SENSENEY
In a penetrating essay on the Parthenon, Manolis Korres offers amark assessment of efforts to present that celebrated building as an edly negative expression of ideal numerical relationships and harmonious proportions.21 such studies as "pseudo-science," Korres notes the disturb that contradict the reality of the building. ing tendency error in the to him, According approaches include impudent suggestions of Characterizing to argue theories the reliance of proposed temple's construction and published measurements; theories on inaccurate, small-scale drawings rather than the geometric found in the actual building; the inability to credibly degrees of magnitude correlate obsessive the proposed geometric shapes with analytic geometry; and the or even that may underlie such studies in motivations mystical like these have articulated and, justifiably, the first place.22 Observations even reinforced
general reservations about the rigor and value of studies of architecture in various periods and and geometric metrological world.23 locations in the ancient Mediterranean perhaps to future stud Although Korres's remarks may provide salutary caution of geometric ies, we may not entirely benefit from severe marginalization antedates in Greek temple design. For one thing, the Parthenon analysis the use of scale drawings in architectural planning.24 In buildings of the were used con Hellenistic (Fig. 6), questions period, when such drawings the geometric basis of plans become considerably more applicable.25 cerning at the close of the Hellenistic (1.2.1-2) clearly period, Vitruvius Writing describes Greek temple design process in terms of Tragic, or the creation of a quantitative geometric system, and SiaGeGi?, the placement of archi Vitru tectural elements according to that established geometry.26 While vius's comments cannot comprehensively
(1994,
represent Hellenistic
lowing discussion issues that pertains carry
practice,
to method for resolving details ... but not for the
statements
reflect
Bell Dinsmoor
with
implications of ancient analysis and not to the temple architecture, of the Parthenon architecture per se. 22. Korres criticisms study may of Greek 1994, Similar pp. 79-80. toward the be directed architectural environ
unless of whole buildings composition or con were concentric they partially own in Wilson centric Jones's plan." of such complex geometry acceptance and numerical ings and other in turn, elicited to material in circular systems structures (2000b) doubts extending period; build has, even see,
that comes something set across in less formal particularly a recent In an aside during public tings. in Chicago, Institute lecture at the Art Jeffrey Hurwit referred to In
ments by C. A. Doxiadis
cluding at Kos. metric fication pertaining Doxiadis structures tended his
(1972), in
of the Roman
of the Asklepieion analysis both a proper trigono Lacking and convincing identi analysis of salient architectural features to his geometry, proposed that the sanctuary's suggests eras were in from various to relate lines to one another at through related
forceful architectural
argument draw
view,
2005). "genius" (Hurwit the remarks of Korres are characteris study and it is these remarks
for at least one Classical-period Jr. 1985. introduction For and views opposing role of drawn see Hasel
in this
tically incisive, that I invoke as a and their implications used for the methodology background A at Kos. To in my of analysis Temple be clear, I in no way draw any meaning
plans
in Greek 1997,
architecture,
angles sight to the section." He does not "golden an A. See of Temple attempt analysis Doxiadis 1972, esp. pp. 125-126,
established
of scale
fig. 77.
In support of his theory for in the 5th "facade-driven" Doric design b.c., Mark Wilson (2001, Jones century 23. p. 678) ancient advocates architects "a general exploited rule [that]
arising
from
Vitruvius's
is
fol
geometry
IDEA
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567
his stated reliance upon Greek architectural writers arguably merits con into the geometric of Hellenistic tinued investigations underpinnings In addition, Vitruvius's adherence to grid-based ap apparent buildings. proaches in Ionic temple design27 might elicit inquiry into procedures that he does not elaborate upon: in the Doric order, where intercolumnar spatial contractions do not lend themselves to an orthogonal grid, how might the of taxis differ?28 geometric constructions the Parthenon will continue furthermore, privileged monument, to be a favored object of attention for numerous lines of inquiry despite of particular approaches. Dating from the 19th century condemnations are too many volumes of re onward, however, archaeological published we ports with scientific measurements pertaining to buildings about which As still know electronic relatively storage their excavators can tell us about ancient little. To allow these to gather dust or occupy unused space, instead of reaping what the laudable efforts of architectural a
design, will benefit nor architectural historians. Furthermore, accusa neither archaeologists tions of "intellectual totalitarianism"29 directed at proponents of geometric serve only to curtail productive discussion. analysis could as ra Rather than framing various outlooks as scientific or mystical, tional or obsessive, we might instead see observations such as those of to reevaluate the methodologies in Korres as an opportunity employed and geometric analyses. In addition, an inclusive view may proportional us to methods that allow for scientifically sound analyses that, in turn, open a our of Hellenistic solidify understanding temples. Finally, responsible, and computer-based mathematically rigorous, approach to geometric us build upon and refine the criticisms, analysis will help tations of similar studies. rules, and expec
The present study uses analytic geometry and vector-based AutoCAD of the design of (or CAD) software to analyze the geometric underpinning at Kos. In the course of this analysis, I also consider Temple A questions the perceived limitations of studies that attempt to unveil surrounding hidden numerical and geometric systems. In order to avoid the inevitable distortions of proportional and geometric that look correct relationships on a only when overlaid plan drawn to reduced scale, my study instead relies on the buildings published measurements. In other words, directly the proposed geometric system is now mathematically verifiable rather than in computation. and is grounded So that we may furthermore intuitive, ensure both mathematical accuracy and the relationship between the nu merical systems and the concrete, graphic form of the revealed geometry, the calculations have been verified through the use of AutoCAD. CAD is not a requisite for this study, but merely a convenient tool that may
researchers and readers a simpler recourse to the measurements of
27. Howe
See
the comments
of Thomas 1999, he
in Howe
and Rowland
4.3.1-8,
where
indebtedness
to the Ionic
allow
in an architectural
on elevations and focuses unexplained, at the expense of any discussion of of Jones's related notion plans. Wilson "facade-driven" Doric design (2000b,
carries the potential of standardization and computer-based method for future studies, allowing for a truly scientific approach inwhich results may be replicated to confirm their veracity. Provided that an analysis such as this one relies upon previously published numbers rather than ones own we may now set aside measurements, suspicions of personal agenda and in the objectivity of the process. have confidence
568
JOHN
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SENSENEY
dimensions revealed through analy discussing the nonorthogonal should consider the temple s general measurements. From the 5th was a common rule of thumb that the century onward, it width:length ratio of a Doric should match temples plan (including the euthynteria) sis, we on the short and long sides of its peristyle.30 With its front and rear and eleven along its flanks, Temple A along appears to be no exception (Fig. 10). In plan, the temple's overall dimen sions are 18.075 x 33.280 m,31 a differential of only 0.4% from a proper the number of columns six columns
6:11 ratio. A
as a 0.143 m reduction of the overall simple adjustment, such or a 0.078 m increase in the width, would result in a length perfect whole
ratio.
number
in Scholars usually account for such "errors" by citing constructional as well as centuries of exposure to the ele exactitude and adjustments, ments.32 Other the temple might slight irregularities found throughout the theoretical design and support this notion of a difference between the actual built form (Fig. 5). For example, there are slight variances in the thickness of the eastern and western naos walls (1.028 and 1.016 m, to the respectively) and in the distances from the exterior of these walls edges of the stylobate (3.313 and 3.380 m, respectively).33 As naos is not centered on the stylobate.34 a result, the
over and deterioration factors such as imperfect masonry Although for such disparities, additional consid time are plausible explanations erations deserve emphasis. If it is the architect's design to begin with a 6:11 plan, other features might the maintenance of complicate in the final built form as the construction progresses. perfect proportions In the end, there will be a set of measurements that are necessarily inter such as the widths of the krepidoma and the overall dimensions of related, proper
30. See Coulton 1974, pp. 62-69; on the eastern side runs in courses that is 0.067 m less than that found on is
Wilson
of that are parallel with the long walls the naos, that on the western side runs in courses ular that are roughly perpendic In addition, the
interpretation distances supported by the nearly equal of 4.43 and 4.435 m from the naos walls to the outer
the western
side. This
the problem of the differ the abstract vision of between and the final product, see
to these walls.
the architect
on the western side are tighter joints than those toward the east. These divergent raised foundations where meet tendencies continue of the naos into itself, the
teria on as
the western
Wilson
2001,
edge of the euthyn and southern sides, to 4.368 m on the eastern that approximately intended for the result than design on the lay in its present human
4.435
pi.
be a more
of the naos. The separate ing the difference crews were limestone should indicate for that
originally
reason result
is a lack of symmetry of earthquakes that have shifted that naos and pronaos eastward, that I find unconvinc
axis of the
the entire an
responsible foundations
lay on either
dimensions. error as
and Herzog 1932, on on-site there 6. Based p. my analysis, are differences in the limestone foun dations sides on the eastern and western the masonry
than side of the temple. More plausible the eastward shift of the entire celia is that one in crew committed the eastern a minor limit error of the
causes for to natural opposed in the the lack of symmetry temple's measurements. Such errors can and do occur in the laying of foundations, of elements the placement
stylobate, resulting
establishing or
possibly in a distance
in
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14.666 M = 45 F = 24 T
4^
i-4
o Uh
10m
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in turn relate to the sizes of the paving slabs and the the stylobate, which area where the relative propor spacing of the columns they support. The is the conversion from tions of the various parts are subject to modification the abstract units of the drawing board (such as 6 x 11) to actual metric must be privileged values. In determining specifications, certain distances while others must be adjusted to the space allotted them. Considerations of the paving slabs, for example, may such as the specific measurements a ultimately result in slight departure from the integral proportions of the s architect original drawn plan. One method of accounting for the overall and individual dimensions of a building is a metrological analysis. A recent study proposes that the architect of Temple A first worked out the overall dimensions according were the usual corner to a specific metrological system.35 Only thereafter to of the Doric order worked out, resulting in adjustments contractions of the theoretical plan. This theory, however, relies upon the dimensions the the identification of a 0.305 m "foot" as the common unit underlying no such unit of system. Simply put, there exists temple's metrological measurement in the ancient Greek world, a fact that the theory's authors in our understanding of contend with by advocating greater flexibility Greek metrology.36 Instead of suggesting issue of commensuration. a detailed makes new units of measurement, For Doric we may consider the Jones specifically, Wilson
temples, exam system, at least for 5th-century a standard to this theory, the width of triglyph expresses ples.37 According the module that establishes commensurability throughout various elements itself commonly corresponds to a of the building.38 The triglyph module a standard foot (e.g., 25 or 30), with a dactyl equal to 5-dactyl multiple of standards.39 1/16 of a foot in accordance with Greek metrological case for amodular for the remains in situ are available for the InTemple A, measurements and the western half of the columns on the rear central columnar interaxis of the stylobate, aswell as four columns along the western lateral colonnade m for the missing eastern half (Fig. 5). At the rear, the addition of 5.793 + 3.080 + 5.793 m) results in a of 14.666 m for the entire (5.793 length axis (Fig. 10). For the long sides, the temple's excavators posit columnar of interaxes of 3.05 m based on the remains in situ and a consideration
0.61 and 0.915 m, respec the triglyphs and metopes, which measure Thus the one preserved interaxis of 3.034 m (see Fig. 5) tively (Fig. II).40 would represent an unintended departure from the theoretical constant of 3.05 m, and we may thereby restore the theoretical lateral axes, excluding the contracted corners, to a length of 24.4 m (8 x 3.05 m), as in Figure 10. and the 14.666 m the 24.4 m axes of the lateral colonnades Therefore, axes of the front/rear respectively, colonnades would of a value equal to 0.61 m 1998.
1998, esp.
integral units,
measurements
are based
an earlier essay, J. J. de Jong p. 62. In to have the measure claims analyzed ments of Temple A, but offers no dis or results to his anal cussion pertaining ysis; see de Jong 1989, esp. p. 104, fig. 3.
frieze; 1932,
comments to Coulton
pp. m.
41.24.4/40
0.611
= 0.610 m; 14.666/24 =
38. Wilson
39. Wilson
Jones 2001.
Jones 2001,
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.345fr .960
v ? .610 *
1.5 r
* .803
\\\\ \ MI <--1.056-5>j
IM I M
Hl
3.05 = 5 T
<?1.270-->
5m
width modules
(T)
also measure 0.61 m.42 A Significantly, Temple As triglyph widths shows that this value equals 30 dactyls of a 0.325 m simple calculation "Doric" foot.43 This standard metope, lateral colonnades, shares a 2:3 relationship with the triglyph width a 1:5 ratio with the average interaxial of the spacing and a 1:24 ratio with the axis of the facade colonnade? according toWilson that these distances Jones's study of 40 and 24
of
to the measurements
10-11. 43.0.610
various
Ifigenia Dekoulakou-Sideris
been convincingly on a 0.3275
(1990),
shown by m
x 16 = 0.325
tions of William
who firmed a value
Bell Dinsmoor
term Doric of 0.326 m. foot, See
(1961),
con also
Wilson
system
Wilson
Salamis, sent a
Doric foot. For the divisibility of the triglyph module into 20,25, 30,
etc., dactyls, p. 690. seeWilson Jones 2001,
p. 689. The
44.Wilson
Jones 2001.
572
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
to precisely 75 and 45 Doric feet.45 In triglyph modules correspond of the building and the drawn plan to the actual dimensions translating its features, then, it is reasonable to theorize that the architect may have the colonnades of the facade and rear, establishing their axes privileged a 3:5 ratio finds the 75-foot of 45 Doric feet. Through this magnitude, measurement mension (Fig. 10). This latter di each of which subdivides into eight intercolumniations, into two half triglyphs, one whole and two metopes triglyph, (Fig. 11). the distance separating the end columns of these axes es Furthermore, tablishes the measurements for the contracted corners, and the remaining divides three interaxial distances according to the criterion the dimensions of the facade and rear colonnades of incremental widening of the individual could be set toward the center. In slabs in accordance with for the axes of lateral colonnades
paving of the stylobate are es spacing, the total dimensions and the widths of the stereobate and euthynteria are set according tablished, to the remaining distance necessary to maintain the 6:11 ratio of the over
all plan. To insist upon this explanation, however, is to treat Temple A as we one more have the Canon of Polykleitos, plausible theory resulting in yet that can never be proven. There are too many types of metrical units, too and too many rationales for us to induce conclu many ways of measuring, correspondence ratios, but rather something outside of the buildings themselves that might verify the significance of those numbers, such as a source or a basis in Euclidian geometry. While Vitruvius validates primary as whole-number the case for how this system relates of the triglyph module, to large-scale distances must remain provisional; in this regard, we may for example, why the 40 integral units of the lateral colonnades wonder, as exclude the corner interaxials. In addition, the modular theory applied to Temple A cannot address a central aspect of design that is unrelated to the trabeation: the placements of the walls of the naos and pronaos in of relation to the overall plan. We must therefore explore other methods the relevance analysis buildings in seeking design. Plan and Standards for Accuracy to substantiate a theory for the underlying logic of the a sively guiding metrological is not so much a reasonable system. What is lacking in such approaches to a pattern of numbers, such
The
Theoretical
it is not enough to merely draw geometric shapes emphasizes, to a scale of 1:100.46 Instead, over the features of a proposed plan reduced must be verified through analytic geometry. In other geometric shapes to the elements they a words, drawing should correspond superimposed As Korres co not through Cartesian overlap only visually, but also mathematically and with lines ordinates with expressed algebraically, interrelationships described in terms of slopes and curves with coefficient-based formulas, such a strict standard places a damper on continued for example. Naturally, to theorize about ancient architectural plans, but the gains in attempts are arguably well worth the endeavor. credibility 45.14.666 m is only 0.026 m 14.640/24 = 0.610 m; 14.640/45 = 0.325 m; 24.4/40 = 0.610 m; 24.4/75 =
0.325 m. 1994, p. 80. 46. Korres (or 0.18%) in excess of 14.640 m.
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a point of emphasis has been that the degree of accuracy in theoretical geometry must approximate the tolerances in the actual plan's the accuracy of the built form, however, elicits construction.47 Determining a bit of circular reasoning, since many of its elements must be measured Another same theoretical to plan that its author attempts support.48 against the very This need not be the case for every feature, however. In Temple A, for ex columnar interaxes ample, there exist slight variances in the noncontracted such as 3.050 m and 3.034 m,49 that are likely to of the lateral colonnades, relate to a theoretical constant rather than an intentional irregularity. On a larger scale, we may note that Temple As naos (9.272 m wide, not in the exact center of the stylobate (15.965 m including itswalls) lies 0.067 m off axis (Fig. 5).50 Given the gen wide), but an imperceptible for symmetry even in conjunction with "optical refine eral predilection as one would be ments," hard-pressed to argue the plausibility of this feature the outer wall to the edge of the stylobate, the dis intentional. From tances on the western 3.375 m,
eastern
and southern
an error ca.
3.380
and
respectively,
side represents
of 3.313 m on the
Still, it may be inadvisable to isolate this error in the eastern pteron, since the final built form is the product of multiple interrelating compo nents. The most conservative approach would be to calculate the percentage of tolerance according to the entire width of the stylobate. This calculation should pertain to the theoretical plan rather than the actual plan, with the m from the eastern only difference being the addition of the "missing" 0.067 side of the temple, resulting in awidth of 16.032 m for the stylobate and an overall width of 18.142 m (see the 1). In order to maintain Appendix strictest possible tolerance in my analysis of this theoretical plan, I will cap the standard for accuracy at 0.42% discussed here.52 theoretical in accordance with the divergence
in the It is important to emphasize that this addition to the width is slight, and does not in any way "stack the deck" for the plan results of the analysis that follows. Instead of adding 0.067 m to the nar rower side, we may be justified in adjusting for symmetry in the theoretical the actual width and shifting the naos to the plan either by maintaining center (see Appendix 2),53 or by reducing the width of the naos by 0.067 m in order to balance the sides 3). As the calcula evenly (see Appendix 2 and 3 demonstrate, the results for each of tions provided inAppendixes these alternative theoretical plans remain well under the strict tolerance
In Korres's
theorists
p. 79. words (1994, pp. 79 "refuse to be bound by the that the requirement 1994, a theoretical definition or geometric, to the actual
case
such
theorists
are
incapable
of con
surements Schazmann
and others,
see
Fig. 1932,
5, and pi. 2.
and Herzog
1932,
= 0.42%. be consis
would
gree
less than the de building the build of accuracy with which was constructed in any (which ing itself
and Herzog 1932, this and all of the follow of the naos relate rather m. and pro to the outside than the socle.
For
these mea
1932, p. 6. For the problems Herzog with this theory, see n. 34, above.
574
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
of 0.42%, and in fact produce results closer to 0% in the case of several dimensions. The rationale for privileging the theoretical plan inAppendix 1, is not to provide the most convincing analysis, but rather to adjust therefore, for symmetry in away that most thoroughly relates to the measurements of the actual plan; when 0.067 m is added to the eastern side of the stylobate, the eastern and western sides of the plan equal one another as well as the side behind the southern wall of the naos.54 The theoretical plan of 18.142 x 33.280 m solves one problem but leaves another unresolved. On the one hand, our expectation for integral in the overall plan is satisfied, since the theoretical plan results proportions in a nearly perfect 6:11 form.55 On the other hand, the rationale for the naos and pronaos remains unclear. While the distance of placement of the an equal the walls of the naos from the edge of the euthynteria maintains 1:1:1 ratio on the sides and rear, the space before the antae of the pronaos shares no integral relationship with these distances.56 Nor in the discern any meaningful proportional relationship dimensions of the naos and pronaos.57 As I argue below, a servable correspondences pertains to process of design arithmetical between may we readily
geometric is quite simple, though it requires some detail and rigor to substantiate it. In the following section, I demonstrate how we may recover the plan's specific design process through analytic geometry.
grounded not in but rather to a relationships orthogonal dimensions, procedure executed with the rule and compass. This geometry
Geometric
Analysis
To properly analyze the plan, I rely on simple calculations based on the of Temple A, with the only adjustment being a published measurements centered naos, flanked on either side by equal distances of 0.380 m from of the naos to the edges of the stylobate.58 All relevant di in the plan are mathematically verified and expressed agonal relationships in the footnotes with reference to a single quadrant of a two-dimensional 1-3 with accompanying Fig coordinate system. In addition, Appendixes ure 23 the and tolerances that demonstrate equations, provide magnitudes, the outer walls measurements for all three theoretical plans proposed geometry according to described in the prior section. Whenever relevant, the location of features will be given as Cartesian coordinates, inwhich the southeastern corner of the euthynteria's outer edge is at the origin 0,0, and the extreme northwest
54. The 4.430 wall m southern side measures face of the edge of the 56. The distance edge, distance from were the pronaos it preserved be the pro 57. The naos Here, whose overall dimensions are 9.272 integral of 1.9% of the x 22.053 ratio is again m.
from
the exterior
to the outer is
to the stylobate on the northern 5.742 naos teria ments, find lateral m. The
facade,
would from
is 3:7, un
edge of the euthyn m. Of these two measure integral ratio between I can the
of the naos
edge rather m;
see
also n. 34,
33.280 m length.
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Figure 12. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under pinning
I II
M,M,M,UP
corner at 18.142,33.280. In addition to consulting the calculations provided here, readers may replicate the proposed findings using CAD software. The results of the following analysis were verified with AutoCAD.59 A significant result of this analysis emerges from the location of a the outer corners of the antae and theoretical central point from which corners of the euthynteria are the outer back and thereby equidistant, of this cir share a theoretical circumference 12).60 The pertinence (Fig. cumference to the design process is supported by the rational relationships it shares with other features. The overall width of the temple shares a 3:5 ratio with the diameter of the theoretical circumfer whole-number ence, with a tolerance of less than 0.1%.61 If caution advises us to consider this ratio a possibly
59. For are rounded 60. From plan's measures long all magnitudes consistency, to the millimeter. located on the point central axis at [9.071, m, which a on the central axis, corner m.
fortuitous
line
a theoretical of either
anta mea
corner
a tolerance
of less than
and
[9.071,12.101].
sum of these
seeAppendix
1.
576
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
X/
I-'
_'
~ _
r .... __
0__
_--_
<'^)
~~~10m 0 Figure 13. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under pinning 62. (18.142 m/3) x 2 = 12.095 m,
a difference ordinate tolerance 63. The of only 6 mm from the at 12.101 m, and therefore of less than 0.1%. theoretical diameter of the m a
that should give pause to our skepticism: the distance from proportion to the plans southern edge and the overall the theoretical circumcenter width of the temple share a 2:3 ratio, again with a tolerance of less than with a baseline x-x of 0.1%.62 We may illustrate this correspondence 3 units drawn across the entire width of plan at the ordinate correspond a line center point of the circumference, along with ing to the theoretical y-y of 2 units drawn from the circumcenter to the edge of the euthynteria
(Fig. 12).
we may express this Geometrically, relationship through the algorithm of two circumferences with a radius of 2 units, each centered on either terminus centered of baseline at the middle x-x is (Fig. 13). The larger circumference, which of x-x\ intersects with the smaller circumferences
circumference
30.247 a ratio
outer corners of the euthynteria. Both the exactly at the points of the for and significance of these intersecting points are mathematical proof ratio of the diameters of the smaller and revealed by the whole-number a tolerance of less than 0.1%.63 When larger circles, equaling 4:5 with in relation to the overall width of the temple (the 3 units of conceived this final dimension x-x), brings the geometric principle underlying the architect's system into striking clarity: the 3:4:5 dimensions of a
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X -0-__ __ Os 0 0 _
Figure 14. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under pinning circumscribed
K^)0~~~
1~~~~~010m
Pythagorean triangle.64 In effect, this geometric form ABC lies at the heart of the design, with the compass centered midway along its hypotenuse and the circumference coinciding with its angles and lines
(Fig. 14).
We should understand as based construction did not work with this geometric underpinning interdependent. Even in the Roman and its compass period, architects
a square, let alone aT square. Instead, the method of lines with the highest precision employed a rule producing perpendicular and compass, with straight lines drawn through circumferential intersec tions in the same manner that is revealed through this analysis of Tem ple A.65 It has already been observed that Roman buildings such as amphi theaters would commonly begin with a Pythagorean triangle, and arrive at the final design using the compass through various stages.66 This Roman use of the similar manner of Pythagorean triangle recalls a conceptually
64. The theoretical diameter of the m to the radius of 12.101 corresponding in the y dimension from the baseline x-x to either = back corner m in any dimension of less than 0.1%.
larger equals of (see n. 60, above). The magnitudes or 18.142 m (the plan's overall width, baseline 24.202 m (the diameter x-x),
circumference
30.247
65. See Roth Conges 1996, pp. 370 372; Taylor 2003, p. 38. 66. Wilson Jones 1993, pp. 401
406, figs. 13,15,16.
57?
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
the baseline Ionic column bases that was familiar to Greek architects as constructing as the Archaic early period.67 The transparency of the plan of Temple A allow us to understand how aHellenistic architect might construct the may a Pythagorean triangle itself. The formula appears to consist of baseline of 6 units, upon the center of which a compass with a radius of 5 units is set, and on the ends of which are set compasses with radii of 4 units. By these could be joined to form the perpendicular lines means, the intersections of the triangle's sides as well as the diagonal of its hypotenuse (Fig. 15). In the case of Temple A, it appears that the larger circumference of this construct remained in place to define the extent of the pronaos geometric now us to a confluence require posit of three separate coincidences of whole-number (3:4:5) with proportions a maximum error that is consistent with the strictest possible standard in the actual building, along with a fourth (and an inte more that these proportions coincidence engender conspicuous) form of central significance to Greek mathematics. More gral geometric of a Pythagorean over, the circumscription triangle graphically expresses bisectors meet at a circumcenter Tha?es' theorem: three perpendicular of tolerance observable located on the hypotenuse, which runs the length of the circle's diameter that the Pythagorean triangle (Fig. 16).68 In turn, the basic proportions establish the location of the theoretical center point and the di yields ameters (Fig. 15). In the face of these internal to Euclidian geometry, the balance and their pertinence correspondences this resulting form obviously falls heavily on the side of in concerning of the circumferences tentional
67. For and pp. column 126-129. the Pythagorean triangle see Gruben bases, 1963,
a 68. By definition, Pythagorean see Eue. is a triangle right triangle; Elem. 3.31.
design rather than chance. There is yet another integral proportion that completes the geometric of the temple's plan. The diagonal across the naos from underpinning a 1:1 correspondence including its external walls shares a difference of with the total width of the temple, with only 0.1%.69 From a theoretical central point located on the cross-axes of the naos, therefore, corner to corner the distance to either edge of the temple's width and each of the external a circum corners of the naos is essentially equal. This congruency suggests to the design of the naos, whose diameter shares a ferential underpinning
69. Width
including 15.572 m, the
its walls
respectively.
theorem, then, we Pythagorean each and find the square root square sum, thus finding 18.123 m.
of their
Ifwe take the 0.019 m difference between 18.123 and 18.142 m (the total adjustedwidth of the temple) and divide by either 18.123 or 18.142 m, we
find a difference of 0.1%.
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010
:-
'-0^~~
-c
=- L d
- m
-~
loZZ "S^~~~
Figure 16. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under pinning whole-number
0 10~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1
m
0 0t
the diameter of the large circle, with a toler as a If we accept these circumferences (Fig. 17).70 guiding method for the placement of features within the plan, their ratio would call tomind Vitruvius s formula of 3:5 circumferences for the main proportions 3:5 ratio with ance of 0.1% of plans in peripteral round temples (Vitr. 4.8.2). One indication that the circumferences here geometric underpinning the ordinates suggest an intentional
separating a scale are plan, special markings required to make this separation percep tible (Fig. 18). Before considering why the architect might have centered his compass at different points a hair swidth apart in his design, we might consider tual dimensions 70. (30.247 m/5) x 3 = 18.148 m, a difference of 0.1% from 18.123 m; = (18.123 m/3) x 5 30.205 m, a differ
ence of 0.1% 71. The cal center from 30.247 m. of the theoreti larger circle are coordinates point of the
is their planar interrelationship. The distance of their theoretical center points is 0.115 m.71 In
this separation in relation to the theoretical proportions and ac to which it corresponds: the separation of these ordinates
(see n. 60, above). For outer m/2) (15.572 edge of the euthynteria: + 4.43 m. For the distance sepa center of rating the theoretical points the larger and smaller circles: 12.216 = 0.115 m. 12.101
of the circle, the coordinates are [9.071,12.216]. center The point sum ordinate here is determined by the of the center point of the naos and the distance of the naos from the south
580
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
-0
--
--
^= Y-. BiaS~~iiiiff~~ia1Q
lo
Figure 17. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under pinning
represents a 0.38% difference, sowe remain within the strictest standard for theoretical tolerances of 0.42% calculated according to the constructional inexactitude found in the actual building.72 the other hand, the applicability of this standard here is dubious. we cannot the precise metrological sys Although conclusively determine tem the fact remains that the architect or builders underlying Temple A, would have needed to convert any conceptual circumferential geometry to actual measurements for orthogonal distances. After all, we cannot ex pect masons to have laid out the building according to invisible circles with an eye to a shared theoretical center maintaining point. Due to such nec in the planning and building process, it is natural that essary adjustments deviations from original design elements are bound to occur. Since we lack secure access to this intermediary the stage of metric specification, relevance of a precise calculation for the percentage of error in a common
72. As relating the widths tion bate), in the calculation to the difference of error of 0.67 m (0.42% of the in
On
center point (such as 0.38%) may be limited. Instead, we may conceive of the divergence inmore experiential terms: in a building over 33 m we long, find the two theoretical circumcenters of the integrally proportioned cir cumferences child's hand at points only 0.115 m apart, or less than the a length of small in relation to the distance from floor to vaults in the cathedral
in rela
is here
stylo calculated
to the geometry, according complete as of represented by the diameter the larger theoretical circumference: m = 0.38%. 0.115/30.247
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?-DII
zzzzzz
~-Q-)
\>QZ
EEEEz
--Q" /
oizzzzzzziq-;
Figure 18. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under
and pinning circumcenters indicators marking the
iii
i fc\7)
i 10m 0
i^~^ i
in Paris. In a structure where even the width of the stylo of Notre Dame bate is off by 6.7 cm, an additional inexactitude of 4.8 cm for an invisible feature is insignificant, particularly when that feature was no longer relevant during the actual building process.
The
Schematic
Plan
affords, I will justification Leaving aside the security that mathematical now suggest inwhich this geometry relates to the Hellenistic possible ways the theoretical demon architect s process of designing Temple A. Unlike into account the proportions stration above, the following analysis takes intention here is to explore further questions of the actual building. My to the design process, integrating what I hope is well-grounded relating speculation with the results of the above geometric analysis. In designing Temple A, the architect would have needed to harmo nize the 3:4:5 triangle underlying the placement of the naos and pronaos inmind how a compass is with the 6:11 ratio of the overall plan. Keeping that the simplest way of working with centered, it isworth emphasizing the tool is to conceptualize circumferences in terms of radii rather than
582
i i ' i ; i ;
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
i ; i
i,
I?I ?
In this way, one need not resort to half-number divisors, such as 2.5, in order to create a whole-number diameter such as 5 units. In radii of 3, 4, and 5 on a baseline of 6, therefore, the architect producing would have created a 6:8:10-unit this same divisor triangle. Extending to the overall plan, an additional 3 units in the y dimension produces the final 6:11 ratio of the temples plan, which repeats the 6 x 11 number of columns for the intended colonnades and simplifies the process of drawing diameters. by maintaining integers. This demonstration of the architect of locating the wall still does not explain the rationale s method
3 units
termini according behind where they were placed along those circumferences. It is tempting to suggest a circumference-based the architect simple algorithm whereby have worked out these placements. On the baseline x-x of 6 units, might center the compass on the termini and center, drawing radius. Repeat this procedure three times, each with three circles of equal radii of 3, 4, and 5 according to the cir
to circumferences
units, finding the location of the walls and corners cumferential intersections (Figs. 19-21). Despite the appeal of the resulting itwould be inadvisable to adopt this procedure. As Korres plans, however, we cannot draw conclusions on the basis recognizes, concerning geometry of how that geometry appears to coincide with features when overlaid on a scale plan.73 Rather, we must replicate such results mathematically. Unlike
73. Korres
1994,
pp. 79-80.
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583
-NIo--
\s _ 1_1... ..'. ..
~ I Ii I
0 \
I. . I .
I ? ~lo10m
0^J)~~
4 units
the case of the underlying geometry demonstrated above, calculations do not verify the hypothesis here in away that satisfies the strictest suggested possible tolerance of 0.42% in the actual building.74 Still, even in cases where proposals hold up to such scrutiny, one consideration method method deserves recognition. There is, of course, a gap between our of verifying the plan through analytic geometry and the ancient of converting the location of its features into magnitudes for
at [13.707,23.279], of 4.636 m as from of 0.081 erance m in the y dimension is a tol
74.
radii
the distance
of 0.7%. radii
of the naos
of the plan to the external and the 12.101 m ra a distance to the of 11.178 m
corner
intersection in = 4.6362 + dimension (12.1012 they y2). intersection The western wall's with the lateral 23.360], of 4.435 circumference as m given from and occurs by the outer the wall's at [13.707, distance of the
of the central (Fig. 21), the intersection anta circle and the western exterior corner is at [13.749,26.483], of 15.124 m from (see n. 60, above) If the circle with m is centered baseline resulting
in a radius 12.101]
diagonal a difference of 1.1% showing from the 9.062 m. expected In the case of the 4-unit radii we may reference the line of (Fig. 20), either wall. That of the long pronaos western intersects with wall the central
distance
the 12.101
edge m radius, m
in a distance to the
of 11.259 intersection
from
in the
584
JOHN
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--r I I rI I
10om
the actual building. We might, scale therefore, ask how an architectural would have been created in the Hellenistic This question drawing period. is especially relevant to the planning of Doric temples, where interstitial columnar contraction precluded convenient slabs that ensure conformity to a grid-based A reasonable answer in the case of Temple intuitive process that begins with the initial repetition of uniform paving plan. A, I suggest, lies in a simple schematic sketch before the
5 units
the smaller of the detailed drawing (see Fig. 22): (1) within completion set the lines of the exterior walls of the naos at the rear and sides circle, with approximately equal distances to the outside edges of the overall plan in accordance with the principle of symmetry; (2) where the lateral lines same circle, set the spur walls again intersect with the circumference of this naos and pronaos; (3) in conjunction with these same lateral separating the lines, set the antae at the intersection with the circumference of the larger circle. In the drawing process itself, this result is most easily achieved in away that is similar to what I describe above: first set the locations of the s corners and the antae by establishing equal distances from the plan edges, and then mark these points with the compass set on the termini and center of the baseline x-x. In these ways, the logic of the overall design maintains that are circumferential, which is in keep symmetry with interrelationships with a process of drawing that relies upon the rule and compass. ing
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I- - -
I \
--1
--
Figure 22. Proposed geometric underpinning of Temple A of a modular-based again consider the hypothesis metrology, we can on one manner inwhich the. plan s designer might have speculate established scale. Since the placement of features depends upon circum considerations, while the production of elements such as paving slabs must be related to orthogonal dimensions, itwould appear that the a fixed the scaling in the following way. In privileging drawing precedes such as 45 Doric feet for the colonnade axes of the front and magnitude ferential the remaining elements in the drawing rear, the architect could measure and placements of the walls and the varying (such as the dimensions of the individual slabs that make up the stylobate and steps) dimensions against these established distances and fix their sizes according to scale. By its nature, this procedure would be inexact for two reasons. In the first place, the expectation of symmetry in the final built form would dictate naos walls to the equal values for the distances from the exterior edge of the at both the sides and rear,when in fact the geometry of the drawn stylobate form would distances; circumferences
75. Two tect could ways resolve in which this the archi be issue would
If we
show a very slight discrepancy between the lateral and rear indeed, the separation of 0.38% in the centers of the theoretical
for the (1) to center the compass at a smaller circumference slightly dif ferent location discussion (see above), or (2) to a verbally designate larger numerical distance for the area behind the naos, from and subtract this distance of the seems both
a result of this very consideration.75 (Fig. 18) is likely to be the plans designer would need to measure the features on the Secondly, the drawing surface by hand and convert them to varying values. Unlike case with Ionic the varied spacing of columns in aDoric temple temples, such as that at Kos dictated that individual slabs could not repeat an established
contractions.
therefore, would need to be subdivided prototype. Distances, into varying units for the paving slabs in accordance with the spatial In the end, therefore, the measurements would have needed to ad the individual paving slabs in addition to the overall size of the
the length of the walls latter solution pronaos. The more practical and more
dress
"incomplete as discussed preliminary planning," by Coulton In either case the ad (1985). is very small, both in relation justment to the in of 0.42% tolerance expected the final built form it would scale and in the theoreti to in cal distance the original
especially of verbal
considering specification
or steps in this process, stylobate euthynteria. Because of the multiple and the slight modifications bound to occur in each of these steps, it is not reasonable for us to theorize intended values for each element and dimension of the plan, given asmeasurements down to the dactyl. Instead, the significant result of this study remains the revealed correspondence of the overall form to a rational, theoretical geometry in which the per of error remain within the strictest possible tolerance found in centages
the actual construction.
correspond
drawing.
586
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
CONCLUSIONS
at Kos suggests A metrological analysis of Temple A in the Asklepieion that the triglyph module theory proposed by Wilson Jones for 5th-century Doric temples may be applicable to this Hellenistic example. This theory cannot, however, account for the locations of features not associated with the temples trabeation, such as the walls of the naos and pronaos. Since was created in an era when the kind of drawn plan described Temple A in Ionic temples, is likely to have been already commonplace by Vitruvius we are in asking how its plan might address the considerations of justified design particular to the Doric order, where transparent orthogonal relation a were not grid possible. A geometric analysis that ships established with to the methodological issues addressed by Korres demonstrates responds that a circumscribed Pythagorean triangle forms the basis of Temple As the placements of the plans of verifying the problem principal rests solely upon modular the evidence for this geometric system theory, the internal, measurable correspondences that conform to Euclidian norms. Furthermore, we can replicate these results both by calculation and with design, circumferences features. Unlike the more difficult CAD with the modular theory, we can speculate a role in axes may have scale in the that the colonnade establishing played into drawn plan, by allowing for the conversion of relative dimensions software. In combination in which determine
actual values for the building. The full implications of the results of this a few observations analysis cannot be explored in the present study, but merit brief comment.76 the design process proposed here runs counter to the cur as well as differing from simple grid approach used in Ionic temples, rent ideas about the way in which Doric temples were designed. Wilson In its details, Jones insists on the principle of "facade-driven" design for Doric temples, in contrast to the "plan-driven" design for Ionic temples.77 In other words, architects designed Doric temples strictly according to the commensuration of elements in the facade, as opposed to the creation of a guiding plan that the layouts of Ionic temples. Yet given the mixing of the archi determined
tectural orders as early as the 5th century b.c.?most famously witnessed in prog currently the results of the present other considerations analysis along with of ancient Greek in the larger context I assess drawing, masonry of planning. tools, 76. In an article
might question such categorical notions of mutual exclusiveness, particularly in buildings as late as the Hellenistic period. As discussed above, it appears that the triglyph module may very well have in the Parthenon?we a significant role in the design of Temple As facade. One might played wonder, however, why ancient architects who are likely to have been trained in the details of both orders should necessarily have repressed planning of a particular module. After all, tendencies solely due to the employment the very notion of mutu Rowland has convincingly demonstrated Ingrid of Vitruvius's transformation "orders" to be an early modern ally exclusive notable accommodate like ancient buildings themselves, genera, which, should omit a discussion of interchangeability.78 That Vitruvius degrees of taxis in relation traditions ing.79 If Vitruvius to Doric of Ionic design s ignorance temples probably reflects his bias toward the that formed the core of his architectural train of Doric taxis stemmed from this limited
ress,
notion
categories Renaissance
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
IN
HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
587
there is no reason why we should perpetuate his ignorance by to Hellenistic it retrospectively architects and their buildings. support from the results of this analysis, it is even worth specu
a on the higher degree of special potential of the Doric order for in the drawing-board At least in the case of design process. sophistication in aDoric temple might Temple A, the variations in columnar placements an alternative approach to the location of the internal the plan.80What appears to have resulted was a system more interesting than the characteristic arithmetical simple relationships one that was too innovative for reuse and of the grid plan, but also perhaps have motivated features within continued development. Perhaps of the "decline" in the production Doric-related method found partly for this reason, and partly because of Doric temples altogether, the possibly in Temple A may have disappeared from
common practice well before Vitruvius picked up his pen. Yet Temple A was not the final instance of this approach, which appears to have extended even the Doric order and into aHellenistic-Roman context, where beyond to demonstrate the application of the Pythagorean temple plans continued as their guiding geometry.81 Ultimately, triangle and 3:5 circumferences the geometry of form characteristic of Temple A might have its however, most recognizable taxis of the architect's legacy not in the cryptomethodic but in the shapes that Roman opus caementicium finally al drawing board, lowed for permanent expression in three dimensions. Framed in this way, the fully experiential rise to a new aesthetic architectural
80. In Temple column interaxes A, the lateral corner ca. 2.7 m, measure inter and 81. These found
theory of Vitruvius.
are 1987, pp. 11-21. For the round see Rakob 1973. and Heilmeyer temple, An elaborated of such geom analysis and the examples at Kos discussed in the present work are themes in a that I explore study article focused (in progress) follow-up on Roman architecture. etry, its significance, tions between these and the connec Coarelli
as to the other average opposed axes of ca. 3.05 m. In the facade rear colonnades, interaxes measure the second sure 3.065 the corner
column
respectively; 1932,
and Herzog
APPENDIX
1 PLAN A
THEORETICAL
and equations for theoretical locations, coordinates, magnitudes, A are given below. The coordinates correspond to measurements in plan meters taken by Schazmann and Herzog converted here to (see Fig. 5),82 an 18.142 x 33.280 with origin 0, 0 and limit 18.142, 33.280 at quadrant the southeastern and northwestern extremes, respectively (Fig. 23). For additional equations, see text and notes above. Location Relevant Circumference 1 A 1 B 1 C Coordinates 0,0 18.142,0 24.202 D 2 4.435,4.430 E 2 13.707,4.430 F 2 13.707,20.002 G 2 4.435,20.002 H 1 13.749,26.483 I 1 4.393,26.483 1 9.071,12.101)
Select
Circumference (Circumcenter
Definitions = Radius 1 + Radius 2 AC = Diameter = distance from circumcenter to A Radius 1 to H Radius 2 = distance from circumcenter
(or B) (or I)
Magnitudes X, Y distances from circumcenter = 9.071 XI: 9.071-0 = 12.101 Yl: 12.101-0 X, Y distances from circumcenter 9.071 = 4.678 X2:13.749 = 14.382 Y2:26.483-12.101
to A
to H
82. Schazmann pi. 2. and Herzog 1932,
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
IN
HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
589
/ ^ID
EIL
,-_
F_
- 1^ L
__
_~
O
Figure 23. Restored theoretical plan of Temple A with geometric under
pinning responding and indicated to Cartesian locations cor 0WJ~ coordinates
O-
0
~10m lomo
=Xl2
+Yl2 12.1012
/ 30.247 / 18.123
= 0.1% = 0.1%
= 15.123
Circumference (Circumcenter
of Circumferences
0 / 30.247 = 0%
APPENDIX
2 PLAN B
THEORETICAL
and equations for theoretical locations, coordinates, magnitudes, B are given below. The coordinates correspond to measurements in plan meters taken by Schazmann and Herzog (see Fig. 5),83 converted here to an at the 18.075 x 33.280 quadrant with origin 0,0 and limit 18.075,33.280 southeastern and northwestern and a symmetrically extremes, respectively, and centered naos (see Fig. 23, scaled for the slightly differing dimensions coordinates of Appendix 1). Location Relevant Circumference 1 A 1 B Coordinates 0,0 18.075,0 C 1 18.075,24.224 D 2 4.402,4.430 E 2 13.674,4.430 F 2 13.674,20.002 G 2 4.402,20.002 H 1 13.716,26.483 I 1 4.360,26.483 Circumference 1 9.038,12.112) (Circumcenter Definitions = Radius 1 + Radius 2 AC = Diameter = distance from circumcenter to A Radius 1 to H Radius 2 = distance from circumcenter
Select
(or B) (or I)
Magnitudes X, Y distances from circumcenter 0 = 9.038 XI: 9.038 = 12.112 Yl: 12.112-0 X, Y distances from circumcenter 9.038 = 4.678 X2:13.716 Y2: 26.483 12.112 = 14.371
to A
to H
83. Schazmann pi. 2. and Herzog 1932,
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
IN
HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
59I
=Xl2
+Yl2
0.020 0.012
/ 30.225 / 18.123
= 15.112
Circumference (Circumcenter
of Circumferences
0.001
/ 30.224
< 0.1%
APPENDIX
3 PLAN C
THEORETICAL
and equations for theoretical locations, coordinates, magnitudes, in C are given below. The coordinates correspond to measurements plan meters taken by Schazmann and Herzog converted here to (see Fig. 5),84 an 18.075 x 33.280 with origin 0, 0 and limit 18.075, 33.280 at quadrant the southeastern and northwestern extremes, respectively, with the width of the naos reduced for the slightly differing Location .067 m in order to provide symmetry (see Fig. 23, scaled dimensions and coordinates of Appendix 1). Relevant Circumference 1 A 1 B C D E F Coordinates 0,0 18.075,0 1 18.075,24.224 2 4.435,4.430 2 13.640,4.430 2 13.640,20.002
Select
G 2 4.435,20.002 H 1 13.682,26.483 I 1 4.393,26.483 Circumference 1 (Circumcenter 9.038,12.107) Definitions = Radius 1 + Radius 2 AC = Diameter = distance from circumcenter to A Radius 1 to H Radius 2 = distance from circumcenter
(or B) (or I)
Magnitudes X, Y distances from circumcenter = 9.038 XI: 9.038-0 = 12.107 Yl: 12.107-0 X, Y distances from circumcenter 9.038 = 4.644 X2:13.682 12.107 = 14.376 Y2: 26.483
to A
to H
84. Schazmann pi. 2. and Herzog 1932,
IDEA
AND
VISUALITY
IN
HELLENISTIC
ARCHITECTURE
593
+Yl2
0.068 0.041
/ 30.216 / 18.089
= 0.2% = 0.2%
= 15.108
Circumference (Circumcenter
of Circumferences
0/30.216
= 0%
594
JOHN
R.
SENSENEY
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John R.
University school 117 611 temple taft
Senseney
of of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
drive,
champaign,
senseney@uiuc.edu